MLB Player Season Stats

MLB PLAYER NEWS

Los Angeles Angels pitcher Andrew Heaney will miss his next scheduled start due to left elbow inflammation.

What It Means:

Heaney underwent an MRI that ruled out any ligament damage and it doesn't sound like the Angels expect the 26-year-old southpaw to be sidelined for long. "Everything that was evaluated said that this is just a bump in the road," manager Mike Scioscia said. "We'll get him out on the mound as soon as possible." Health issues have limited Heaney to just 27 2/3 innings over the past two seasons.

numberFire's models currently project Heaney to record a 5.59 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, and 21.4 strikeout percentage while going 3-5 across 64 1/2 innings this season.

New York Yankees outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury (oblique) is not expected to be ready for Opening Day, manager Aaron Boone said on Monday.

What It Means:

Ellsbury is dealing with a right oblique strain that has sidelined him from Cactus League action since March 1. It sounds like the 34-year-old outfielder should be ready by the second or third week of the season. He projects to serve as the Yankees' primary backup to Aaron Hicks in center field this season.

The Texas Rangers claimed first baseman Tommy Joseph off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies.

What It Means:

Joseph was designated for assignment by the Phillies last week following the signing of Jake Arrieta. He should provide the Rangers with some right-handed hitting depth while playing second fiddle to Joey Gallo at first base. The 26-year-old first baseman slashed .240/.289/.432 with 22 home runs, 69 RBI, and 51 runs scored in Philadelphia last season.

Miami Marlins catcher/first basman J.T. Realmuto (back) said Monday morning that he is confident he'll be ready for the start of the regular season.

What It Means:

Manager Don Mattingly said that he thinks Realmuto is turning the corner, so all of these are good signs with the season just over a week away. Check back for another update on Realmuto later in the week to see if the Fish still think he is on target for Opening Day.